Have a large group of friends that all seem to get hungry at the same time?  Do most restaurants see you coming and race for the doors?  Here are a few places in Houston that can handle almost any size group and still have you smiling.  All of them will take reservations, and it’s highly recommended to keep your time waiting to a minimum.
 
Maggianos - It’s Italian and it’s simple.  Order the family style meal and *no one* will go away hungry.  For a flat per person fee (great for handling the check at the end of the night), your table gets two appetizers, two salads, two pastas, two main courses, two veggies, and two deserts.  Oh and it’s all you can eat.  The food is excellent and service is centered on making you feel like you're at home.  If you do have to wait at the start, their excellent bar and piano player will keep everyone entertained.  They do have a massive upstairs area that can be reserved for parties and receptions.  Note that this restaurant is a step above Macaroni Grill or Olive Garden in terms of quality and price.
 
Todai - In the mood for sushi?  Have some folks in your group that can't bear raw fish?  Todai is an upscale buffet that serves both cooked and uncooked Japanese items - from udon and teriyaki to sushi and sashimi you'll find it all here.  The quality is excellent and being a buffet, they can quickly handle your larger group.  They do not have a separate room for large groups, but can quickly pull together tables to fit any size group.
 
Chuy's - Some of the best tex-mex in the city can be found at this well known local spot.  Be sure to plan ahead as many larger parties like to come here.  This place gets packed at night, but the food is good, the prices are reasonable, and the decor... is wacky (hubcaps on the ceiling in one room and foot long wooden fish in another).  The free flowing margaritas will keep everyone happy and the chips and salsa (ask for the Creamy Jalapeno) will help the time fly by until your tasty entrees come out.  Order the Chuy Gooey as a starter appetizer (one per 10 people) and the smiles will only get broader.

For great American Cuisine, Open City is able to accommodate large groups and they offer a great view of downtown from their rooftop terrace.